How to Become a Butchers and Meat Cutters in Pennsylvania
Butchers and Meat Cutters in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $37,490/year, which is 4% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a butchers and meat cutters takes home approximately $1,172/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a butchers and meat cutters can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a butchers and meat cutters in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Butchers and Meat Cutters positions in Pennsylvania typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many butchers and meat cutters positions in Pennsylvania require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Pennsylvania licensure or certification
Pennsylvania may require specific licensing or professional certification for butchers and meat cutterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Pennsylvania Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania employs 4,050 butchers and meat cutters. The highest concentrations are in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and Pittsburgh.
Butchers and Meat Cutters salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $40K | $19.25/hr | 1,920 |
| Pittsburgh | $40K | $19.14/hr | 740 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $39K | $18.55/hr | 260 |
| Erie | $38K | $18.49/hr | 70 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $38K | $18.22/hr | 140 |
| York-Hanover | $38K | $18.2/hr | 100 |
| State College | $37K | $17.94/hr | 50 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $37K | $17.92/hr | 210 |
| Reading | $37K | $17.7/hr | 120 |
| Williamsport | $37K | $17.61/hr | 40 |
| Chambersburg | $36K | $17.35/hr | 50 |
| Lebanon | $35K | $16.89/hr | 100 |
| Lancaster | $35K | $16.83/hr | 240 |
| Altoona | $35K | $16.65/hr | 40 |
| Johnstown | $29K | $14.15/hr | 50 |
Butchers and Meat Cutters salary range in Pennsylvania
Butchers and Meat Cutters careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a butchers and meat cutters make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median butchers and meat cutters salary in Pennsylvania is $37,490 per year ($18.02/hr). This is 4% below the national median of $38,960. Salaries range from $28,590 to $57,240.
What are the requirements to become a butchers and meat cutters in Pennsylvania?▼
Butchers and Meat Cutters positions in Pennsylvania typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Pennsylvania may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Pennsylvania licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a butchers and meat cutters afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $37,490, a butchers and meat cutters in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $2,584/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 54.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for butchers and meat cutters in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for butchers and meat cutters in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($40,040), Pittsburgh ($39,810), Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton ($38,580). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for butchers and meat cutters?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $37,490 salary, this means roughly $1,151/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.